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Wiggle room

In South Carolina, a newspaper editor is annoyed by pro-lifers, but comforted by the campaign advice offered by the US bishops.

Isn't that a neat example of what the bishops' statement was designed to accomplish: to make people feel more comfortable about putting the pro-life issue aside?

This particular editor isn't much of a prose stylist. So it's striking when he comments, of the bishops' statement: "It was like reading one of my own columns." True; all too true.

Phil Lawler has been a Catholic journalist for more than 30 years. He has edited several Catholic magazines and written eight books. Founder of Catholic World News, he is the news director and lead analyst at CatholicCulture.org. See full bio.

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Margo has a great idea. I have been sending a check to the Missionaries of Charity instead, but next time I may send it to Denver instead.
And---equally important---send a photocopy of the check to your own bishop with a note saying why you have sent it where you have.

Posted by: Margo -
Nov. 03, 2004 1:24 PM ET USA

Perhaps those among the laity who are disappointed in the bishops' statement can registered their disappointment in a tangible way. During their Bishop's next annual appeal, they might send a check to a bishop who didn't wiggle but who stood strong and bravely taught the truth of the Gospel.

Posted by: Franko -
Nov. 03, 2004 1:01 PM ET USA

I think we need to carefully consider the argument that a candidate who talks Pro-life and may even vote pro life could be the wrong choice in an election if his/her other stands on issues would actually increase Abortion in the short or long term. If this candidate really supports firing single pregnant woman just for being pregnant, we need to question the seriousness of his pro life commitment.

Posted by: extremeCatholic -
Nov. 03, 2004 12:14 PM ET USA

All the bishops may be pro-life in a pro-forma sense but too many are anti-anti-abortion.

Posted by: -
Nov. 03, 2004 10:05 AM ET USA

Typical member of the "UNBIASED" press; the pro life crowd should just be quiet and our few brave Bishops and Priests should act like those who are gutless on the issue of life for the unborn.
.
No, Mr. Editor we will never just go away and leave the bully pulpit to you and your "UNBIASED" brethren.
Pro life is now a political factor and will be at the forefront from now on.
Thank God for EWTN and Father Pavone!

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